WEF 2026: Czech PM responds to Ukraine aircraft criticism

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš expressed outrage over the strong reaction to his government’s decision to deny Ukraine the sale of four L-159 light combat aircraft that could have helped strengthen the country’s air defense as Russia continues its attacks.

Babiš made the remarks on the social network X, CE Report quotes Ukrinform.

“I am struck by the amount of fuss that some journalists, and especially the opposition, have made around the L-159 aircraft,” Babiš said.

He recalled that Czech President Petr Pavel spoke about the possible transfer of the aircraft to Ukraine back in 2023, at a time when then Defense Minister Jana Černochová reportedly refused the move, arguing that the aircraft were needed to train Czech soldiers.

“And of course, this is still relevant. So we have the same position on this issue as the previous government,” Babiš stated.

The prime minister said he was not surprised by what he described as the “hypocrisy of opposition politicians,” whom he accused of competing to insult the current government, nor by criticism from some journalists “who are unable to verify the facts.”

“However, I am surprised by the words of the president, who speaks of selfishness. From the first day of our government, I have tried to ensure proper relations between the government and the president, because this is important for the functioning of our country,” Babiš said.

Babiš did not comment on the latest missile and drone attacks carried out by Russia against Ukraine overnight.

The Czech prime minister has departed for Davos to attend the World Economic Forum.

Previously, the Czech government announced that it could not sell Ukraine four L-159 aircraft out of the 24 operated by the Czech Armed Forces, citing domestic military needs. President Petr Pavel criticized the decision, saying it signaled a shift toward selfishness rather than solidarity.